The microbiome of Haemaphysalis lemuris (Acari: Ixodidae), a possible vector of pathogens of endangered lemur species in Madagascar.

•The microbiome of Haemaphysalis lemuris is species rich, with over 500 taxa.•Host species is an important variable shaping H. lemuris microbial communities.•Geographic location is also an important variable, but seems to have a less pronounced effect.•Potential vector status of H. lemuris is confirmed by presence of Rickettsia spp, and Babesia DNA.